In pictures: The teddy bears helping families in Ribbleton

It’s been a very good start to autumn this year - or ‘bear-y’ good, depending on which family you ask.

That’s because the Ribbleton Family Hub has this week hosted its latest Teddy Bears’ Picnic, as part of an effort to give families the chance to find out what support is on offer for them while their children go and play.

The Ribbleton Family Hub is one of 34 Family Hubs in Lancashire, which works to support children, young people, and families through activities, advice, and signposting.

They also host vital ‘one stop shops’, where visitors can speak to charities face-to-face for more direct support.

In Ribbleton, families got the chance to speak to nursing teams, mental health charities, and housing support services.

Sarah Titlow, an administrator for Cosy Homes in Lancashire, said the Teddy Bears’ Picnic provided a vital way to access support.

"This is a great opportunity for people to speak to us about what's on offer, and to signpost them to what's out there,” she said.

"Our main focus is warm homes, and we do boiler repairs, advice and support for people struggling with energy debt. With winter coming up, it's more important than ever."

According to Preston Neighbourhood and Community Team manager Suzanne Brooks-Parry: "The Family Hub model is all about making support accessible and ensuring families can get the help they need in a welcoming environment.

"Events such as our Teddy Bears' Picnic and One Stop Shop sessions are a fantastic way of bringing families and services together, while showcasing the strength of partnership working across Lancashire.

"It's been a really lovely day, and we've enjoyed welcoming so many children, parents, carers and families. We have events like this taking place across Lancashire throughout the year, so why not see what's available at your local Family Hub?"